ESSILOR ANNOUNCES RECIPIENTS OF 2005 OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY GRANTS
THREE SCHOOLS AWARDED $20,000 FOR COMMITMENT TO ADVANCEMENT IN THE INDUSTRY

DALLAS – (January 13, 2006) – Continuing its commitment to education, Essilor of America, Inc. announced the recipients of its 2005 Essilor Optical Technology Grants. These grants are awarded to schools and colleges of optometry that exhibit their commitment to growing the industry through new advancements. This year’s winners included:

• Michigan College of Optometry to update the clinical patient areas and provide better services for their patients.
• Southern College of Optometry for multi-media centers for the dispensary area.
• NOVA Southeastern University College of Optometry to modernize the Optical Services area by upgrading equipment and patient services.

Each school received a $20,000 grant to apply toward its project.

“Essilor is committed to education and strongly believes in supporting schools and colleges dedicated to furthering the optical industry,” said Dr. Rodney Tahran, vice president of professional relations and clinical affairs for Essilor of America. “These grants are intended to not only help evolve the industry, but to also attract and retain students by providing the schools with funding to help build and sustain prominent programs.”

In addition to the grants, Essilor sponsors the Varilux® Optometry Super Bowl, which gives optometry students the chance to increase their understanding of the field as well as network with their peers. Students from all 19 optometry schools in North America, Canada and Puerto Rico travel to compete in this annual event.

This is the fourth year that Essilor will award these grants to optometry schools. Entry requirements included a description in 1,000 words or less as to why the school needs and deserves the grant. Applications are judged based on the school’s commitment to the growth of premium optical technology as well as how the money will help the school elevate the standards and visibility of ophthalmic dispensing for students and patients. The panel of judges is comprised of Essilor executives and independent optometrists. Funds were distributed by December 31, 2005.

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